Our Values

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Statement

Loaves & Fishes is committed to achieving food security and promoting food equity for every person in Greenville County. In our mission to end hunger, everyone is welcome. At Loaves & Fishes, we embrace our differences, and we know we are all stronger together. As people and as an organization, we demonstrate the deepest part of our humanity by honoring one another’s stories and striving for empathic action in every moment.

The faces of food insecurity in our community are diverse. Feeding those in need is often made more difficult as food insecurity intersects with a range of societal challenges such as addiction, mental health, human trafficking, incarceration and displacement. Loaves & Fishes is committed to providing food free of charge to agencies and organizations that are working to address these societal challenges.

We are dedicated to breaking down barriers to food security for those living in food deserts, lacking access to adequate public transit and fearful of seeking food assistance due to their immigration status. Food security in Greenville County ensures everyone has access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food. We do not discriminate based on race, color, gender, sexual identity, gender expression, education, age, religion, nation of origin, socioeconomic status, veteran status, disability, immigrant status, or political affiliations. Loaves & Fishes invites our partner agencies to join us in our commitment to serve without discrimination.

Equity requires justice, fairness and access to opportunities and resources for all members of our community. In creating and sustaining a climate where equity and mutual respect are intrinsic, we are nurturing an organization that attracts and retains people and partners who feel comfortable contributing their unique wisdom, perspectives and experiences.

Loaves & Fishes acknowledges food security as a crucial part of creating a more equitable society. We recognize lack of access to fresh, healthy food affects academic success, economic mobility and health outcomes. Food equity in our community guarantees access to healthful, affordable, and culturally significant foods for all of our neighbors.

Loaves & Fishes recognizes diversity, equity and inclusion cannot only be reflected in our service to the community. As an organization, we are committed to developing leadership and staff that is inclusive and reflects the voices and life experiences of the neighbors we serve. Inclusion means respecting differences, acknowledging different experiences and recognizing how those experiences impact those we serve. We strive to demonstrate cultural competency by valuing diverse life experiences, assessing our own worldview, and acknowledging that we must never stop learning and listening in order to build a healthier organization and a better world.

Loaves & Fishes’ RDEI Committee Mission & Vision

Mission

The mission of the Loaves & Fishes’ Race, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee is to establish and foster a Board of Directors that reflect the communities we serve and includes members with a tapestry of lived experiences, personal belief systems, talents, skills, and viewpoints.

Vision

We envision a Board of Directors whose members possess the knowledge necessary to demonstrate a high level of cultural competency, shows an unwavering compassion for those experiencing food insecurity and prioritize the voices of members with lived experiences that reflect those we serve.